Thu Sep 12 01:30:00 UTC 2024: ## Young Irish Golfer Makes Amgen Irish Open Debut, Following in McIlroy’s Footsteps

**Newry, Northern Ireland** – 17-year-old amateur golfer Seán Keeling is set to make his Amgen Irish Open debut this week at Royal County Down, following in the footsteps of golfing legend Rory McIlroy. Keeling, a product of the Made In Holywood Golf Academy at Roganstown, has been tipped as one of the most exciting Irish prospects since McIlroy and fellow Holywood alumnus Tom McKibbin.

Keeling’s rapid rise through the amateur ranks is a testament to the academy’s unique training philosophy. Under the watchful eye of Geoff Loughrey, who himself trained under McIlroy’s coach Michael Bannon, the academy focuses on a team ethic and disciplined approach, more akin to a top European football club than a traditional golf coaching structure.

“We used the same philosophy that Rory McIlroy has used for his entire career,” explains Loughrey. “We try to build a team around players. I’m more like a football coach, and the Academy is like a team. We have a psychologist, a fitness coach, a dietician, a clothing contract with J. Lindeberg and an equipment deal with Srixon.”

This comprehensive approach, coupled with an emphasis on a low-spin, controlled swing, has produced a string of successful players, including Keeling’s older brother Patrick, Hugh Foley, and the rising star Mirah Mijumbi.

Keeling’s impressive achievements include winning the Fred Daly Trophy, AIG Senior Cup, Scottish Boys Open, and Irish Boys Amateur Open. Last year, he earned a place on the Junior Ryder Cup team after a stellar performance at the English Amateur Open and went on to secure a scholarship to Texas Tech University.

While Keeling may not be at McIlroy’s level yet, his participation in the Amgen Irish Open is a significant milestone. His performance at Royal County Down will be closely watched as he embarks on his collegiate career, fueled by the same philosophy that has nurtured golfing greats.

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